LS battle a test of NDA's popularity: Kanwaljit

Distancing himself from his remarks that the upcoming Lok Sabha poll would be an acid test for SAD president Sukhbir Badal, Punjab Minister Kanwaljit Singh said the electoral battle would examine the popularity of the NDA.

Distancing himself from his remarks that the upcoming Lok Sabha poll would be an acid test for SAD president Sukhbir Badal, Punjab Minister Kanwaljit Singh on Saturday said the electoral battle would examine the popularity of the NDA, of which his party was a constituent.

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"Since the SAD is part of the NDA, which has projected L K Advani as its Prime Ministerial candidate, the outcome of the Lok Sabha poll will be a test of NDA's popularity," he said responding to a reporter's query.

When repeatedly asked about his recent remarks, a visibly annoyed Singh, a senior SAD leader and a Cooperation Minister in the Parkash Singh Badal government, said "I have already said it will be a test of NDA's popularity."

"Do not try to put words into my mouth," he shot back.

The SAD leader accused the UPA government at the Centre of discriminating against Punjab saying during the 12th Plan, Punjab was allocated only Rs 3000 crore.

On the contrary, neigbouring Himachal Pradesh received Rs 10,000 crore, he said.